Toothbrush with ivoride handle, London, England, 1870-1920
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Since 1800, the toothbrush has been the most popular way to clean the teeth. Sold by Savory & Moore, a manufacturing chemist based in London, the handle is made from ivoride (a plastic imitation of ivory). The circular head is made from bristles, which probably came from animal hair. Modern toothbrush heads are made from nylon. The toothbrush is pictured with a larger toothbrush (A616311).
Object number:
A616310
Related Themes and Topics
Glossary:
Glossary: hygiene
The science of health and how to maintain it. A condition or practice which promotes good health. The definition varies widely and differs across cultures.
Glossary: toothbrush
Small brushes, with long handles, for cleaning the teeth. A variety of oral hygiene measures have been used since before recorded history. This has been verified by various excavations done all over the world, in which tree twigs, bird feathers, animal bones and porcupine quills that had been used to clean or brush ones teeth were recovered.
Glossary: dentistry
The study, treatment and management of diseases affecting the mouth, jaws, gums, teeth and their supporting tissues.